Loose rivets
Good posts.
I was informed a few years ago by the chief pilot of a large carrier, that "flying skills and finesse" were not the priority in skills required to operate a large modern aircraft. Seeing videos of at least two crosswind landing incidences, involving medium weight aircraft belonging to "flag carriers", his comments could be called into question.
Not an "ace" myself I hasten to add, nor am I a robot on the other hand but I too had a "free hand to explore" a little of aircraft envelopes in my line of work. We had no company SOP's. Having said that, you are very correct in your advice in sticking to published company or manufacturers SOP's of course. Just like to add, that aircraft manufacturers SOP's are published with litigation in mind. "Cover thy a***e" comes to mind!
A point of possible interest, the DA series of aircraft, was the only series of aircraft i operated, where the reverse thrust could not be activated until the nose wheel was in contact with the ground. This I believe was to avoid the possibility of not getting the nose wheel on the ground when required, with TR engaged.